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Signing classes 2012 · NFL signee counts by recruit position
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Program year analysis and class DNA metrics for Notre Dame (2012).
2012 recruiting class — expectation versus Stars2Stats outcomes
Class medals
“Built on development, not recruiting rankings.”
S2S Class DNA
One-year metrics for this recruiting class
Recruits that contributed to program
Share who became impact players (starters, elite contributors, or NFL)
Based on only Low HS Projection → All-Conference or higher
Recruits that reached the NFL in any tier
Share with limited verified outcomes
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Signing classes 2012 · NFL signee counts by recruit position
The Notre Dame 2012 recruiting class produced several noteworthy outcomes, with a total of six recruits achieving outcomes classified as NFL Drafted or better. The overall class ranked 12th originally and improved to an 8th place in the Stars2Stats re-evaluation. This upward movement suggests that the program successfully developed a number of recruits beyond their perceived potential at the time of signing.
A significant aspect of this class was the strong performance of lower-ranked recruits. For example, both Scott Daly and C.J. Prosise achieved notable outcomes, transitioning from relatively low ranks to securing positions in the NFL. This indicates a pattern of effective development within the program, where coaching and resources may have played a crucial role in maximizing player potential.
However, the class also included two notable misses. DaVonte' Neal and Gunner Kiel, who were both highly-ranked, failed to reach their projected outcomes. Kiel's outcome as a "Bust" stands out particularly, as he was one of the top recruits in this class. This dichotomy of high success for some recruits alongside notable underperformance for others illustrates the variability in outcomes within the same recruiting cycle.
Overall, the 2012 recruiting class for Notre Dame met expectations, with several recruits outperforming their original rankings significantly. The S2S rerank improved due to the successful development of multiple players who transitioned to professional football, particularly in the NFL. The class demonstrates a solid return on investment for the program, highlighting a successful recruiting strategy that leveraged the potential of both high and low-ranked recruits effectively.
Takeaway: Notre Dame's 2012 recruiting class showcased a strong ability to develop talent, yielding several NFL-caliber players while also experiencing some underperformance among top recruits.